African Continental Free Trade Agreement 2020

The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) is a historic trade agreement that was signed in 2018 and came into effect on January 1, 2021. The agreement aims to create a single market for goods and services across the African continent, with the aim of increasing trade and investment, boosting economic growth, and creating jobs for the continent`s burgeoning population.

The AfCFTA is expected to be the largest free trade area in the world in terms of participating countries, covering a market of 1.2 billion people and a combined GDP of more than $3 trillion. The agreement is designed to eliminate tariffs on 90% of goods traded within Africa, making it easier and cheaper for businesses to trade across borders.

The AfCFTA is seen as a major milestone in the development of the African continent, which has long struggled with economic fragmentation and a lack of opportunities for its young and growing population. By creating a single market, the AfCFTA is expected to promote intra-African trade, increase competitiveness, and drive economic growth.

Another key feature of the AfCFTA is its emphasis on trade in services, which currently accounts for a relatively small share of African trade. The agreement aims to promote the liberalization of trade in services, including financial, telecommunications, transport, and professional services, which can help to create jobs and boost economic growth.

The AfCFTA also includes provisions on investment, intellectual property rights, and competition policy, which are designed to create a level playing field for businesses operating in the region. It is hoped that these provisions will encourage foreign investment and promote the development of local industries.

However, the AfCFTA also faces some challenges, particularly around infrastructure and logistics. Many African countries have poor infrastructure and inefficient customs processes, which can make it difficult and expensive for businesses to trade across borders. There are also concerns about the potential impact of the agreement on smaller businesses, which may struggle to compete with larger, more established firms.

Despite these challenges, the AfCFTA represents a major step forward for the African continent. By creating a single market, the agreement has the potential to increase trade and investment, promote economic growth, and create a more prosperous future for the people of Africa. As the agreement continues to be implemented in the coming years, it will be important for governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to work together to address the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by this historic trade agreement.